The packers and movers sector in India has seen massive growth in the past decade. With individuals continuously shifting to some other location for job, studies, or business purposes, packers and movers services in Mumbai, Thane, Delhi, and India altogether are in very high demand. But while availing relocation services, one general query which puzzles customers is:
GST in India

Goods and Services Tax (GST) is an integrated tax system introduced in India in July 2017. GST came in place of multiple indirect taxes such as service tax, VAT, and excise duty. GST integrated the taxation system by encompassing everything into one tax system.
Packing and unpacking
Loading and unloading
Transportation of household goods
Insurance of goods during transit
GST Rates on Packers and Movers Charges
GST is different in the case of packers and movers rates in India. It is different depending on the type of service availed:
Goods Transport (Goods Only
GST Rate: 5%
Utilized when you are reserving vehicle services (transportation) but no loading, no unloading, and no packing.
Complete Relocation Services (Packing + Loading + Transport + Unloading)
GST Rate: 18%
The majority of the customers availing packers and movers in Thane or other places utilize full-service relocation, which is chargeable under 18% GST.
Insurance Services for Goods
GST Rate: 18%
When you insure your home appliances or office machines, you have to pay 18% GST.
Assume that you are shifting from Thane to Pune with an estimated cost of ₹20,000 (without GST).
If you simply hire a truck for shifting:
GST @ 5% = ₹1,000
Total = ₹21,000
If you hire complete shifting services (packing, loading, transport, unloading):
GST @ 18% = ₹3,600
Total = ₹23,600
As can be understood, the GST rate actually reverses the bill amount.
Why GST is Levied ( Charges) on Packers and Movers
GST offers a single rate in the entire India, which avoids additional expenses. Previously, individuals were in a confused situation with service tax, VAT, and octroi. But now with GST, there was clarity, and customers can simply glance:
Base shifting charges
Applicable GST (5% or 18%)
Insurance charges
For instance, when you hire packers and movers in Thane, you get a GST bill, making it genuine and eliminating any possibility for cheating.
Saving GST while using Packers and Movers
Although GST is a government levy, you can save money on your expenditure wisely:
Use Only Transport if Necessary – If you can pack and load with local help, use transport only to save GST (5% instead of 18%).
Compare GST-Inclusive Quotations – Always ask for a final sum with GST included so you’re not surprised.
Verify GST Registration – Hire only GST-registered packers and movers in Thane so that you get accurate billing and avoid falling into fraud traps.
Time Shifting during Weekdays – Discounts given by most packers and movers on weekdays reduce the price overall even after GST.
Benefits of GST for Customers
Even though some people may believe that GST increases the bill, there are some benefits:
Transparency: No double or hidden charging.
Standardization: India standardizes rates country-wide.
Authenticity: GST registered packeries and movers tend to be more reliable in general.
Claim in Business Moves: Companies can claim GST credits when relocating offices.
FAQs
1. Do all packers and movers charge GST?
Yes, if they are registered under GST. Legitimate movers will always provide a GST invoice
2. Do I avoid paying GST for movers?
No, GST is a mandatory government tax. If a mover says “no GST,” the likelihood is that they could be unregistered, and this is not safe.
3. Is GST refundable?
GST is not refundable in the event of personal relocation. However, companies are moving offices can avail GST input credit.
4. Which costs less – transport-only service or complete relocation?
Transport-alone service with 5% GST is less expensive, but total relocation with 18% GST is effort- and time-saving.
Conclusion
The GST rates on packers and movers in India are easy – 5% on transport-only services, and 18% on complete relocation services and insurance. Take packers and movers in Thane or any other location in India, knowledge about GST makes you choose wisely and keeps you away from additional expenses.
Always take the services of a GST-registered moving company for hassle-free shifting, authenticity, and transparency. Even though GST is little more expensive, the security and reliability that accompany it are worth paying for.